If you’re feeling overwhelmed and anxious about your future retirement plans, or maybe you haven’t even had time to think about retirement, then you are not alone!
Little did today’s special guest know when he moved to Gainesville in 1995, that the close-knit community would not only shape his family’s future but also lead him to a surprising and transformative retirement journey.
In this episode of North GA Business RadioX, Tony Herdener, retired CFO of Northeast Georgia Health System, shares valuable insights on retirement and career transitions with your host, Phil Bonelli.
You’ll discover how Tony’s personal experiences and reflections provide a unique perspective on navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with retirement and being a highly effective leader while you are still working.
His emphasis on self-awareness, reflection, and the importance of community involvement offers practical advice for everyone regardless of what stage you are at in your life and career.
Tony’s journey and wisdom make this episode a must-listen for those seeking guidance on successful personal and professional growth through self-awareness and mentorship.
Connect with Phil Bonelli:
https://www.facebook.com/Hopewell-Farms-GA-105614501707618/
https://www.instagram.com/hopewellfarmsga/
https://www.hopewellfarmsga.com/
Connect with Beau Henderson:
https://www.facebook.com/RichLifeAdvisors
https://www.facebook.com/NorthGARadioX
Key moments in this episode are:
00:07:13 – Transitioning from Corporate Career
Tony Herdener shares his experience of transitioning from a corporate career to retirement, highlighting the challenges of adjusting to a new routine without the daily work environment and interactions.
00:10:39 – From Strength to Strength Book Recommendation
Tony discusses the book “From Strength to Strength” and its impact on his transition to retirement. The book focuses on self-awareness, transitioning from knowledge to wisdom, vulnerability, and spirituality in the second half of life.
00:11:52 – Cultivating An Aspen Grove
Tony refers to the metaphor of the Aspen Grove to emphasize the importance of cultivating connections and vulnerability in the second half of life for successful transitions and personal growth.
00:15:20 – Life’s Uneven Struggles
The conversation touches on the uneven nature of life and the concept of work-life balance, highlighting the importance of giving 120% at work and at play to achieve success without mediocrity.
00:15:48 – Self-awareness and Preparation
Tony encourages self-awareness and financial preparation ten years before a career transition. He emphasizes the need to be self-aware and prepared for the future.
00:17:09 – Reflection and Mentoring
Reflection and seeking mentors are crucial for personal growth. Tony discusses the importance of journaling, setting personal goals, and seeking out mentors for guidance and wisdom.
00:20:09 – Seeking Wisdom and Mentorship
Tony provides tips for approaching mentors, emphasizing the importance of doing homework, sincerity, and vulnerability. He also highlights the value of networking and leveraging connections.
00:23:50 – Vulnerability and Trust
Tony emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and trust in relationships, both in the workplace and personal life. He shares how being vulnerable and humble can lead to meaningful collaboration and growth.
00:30:06 – Listening to Critics
Tony discusses the importance of listening to constructive criticism while ignoring cynicism. He draws parallels to the blue angels who critique each other to improve, highlighting the value of feedback for personal and professional growth.
00:31:19 – Dealing with Cynics and Critics
Tony discusses the importance of turning off the noise from cynics and embracing feedback from critics. He emphasizes the need to focus on growth, assume positive intent, and be coachable.
00:32:32 – Embracing Feedback
Using the example of Apollo 13, Tony highlights the importance of feedback for course correction. He stresses the significance of feedback as a means of improving and achieving the mission.
00:34:14 – Alignment with Boss and Organization
Tony shares the importance of aligning with the boss and the organization to ensure that everyone is on the same page. He emphasizes the need for clear communication and understanding of priorities.
00:35:51 – Measurement and Goal Setting
Tony discusses the significance of metrics in measuring progress and the impact of setting goals. He emphasizes the power of focus, affirmations, and having a clear why behind one’s actions.
00:38:54 – Problem Solving and Wisdom
Tony emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and bringing solutions to the table. He highlights the value of wisdom in filtering ideas and the need for continuous learning and growth.
